John White Comic Reviews

The introduction of villain, The Stag, adds to the complexity of the story since it seems to be The Shadow’s equal in every way and with the singular goal of undoing all the good that he has done. The script by Steve Orlando is phenomenal as it carefully navigates an issue with two protagonists. Both are given their time to shine and I suspect that even a few die-hard Batman supporters may find themselves supporting The Shadow in his quest to rid Gotham of evil. The story is backed up by superb art by Riley Rossmo that excellently melds the modern style of Batman with the pulp noir of The Shadow’s 1930’s heyday. The twist at the end raises the stakes to a whole new level in a way that will surely leave you clamoring for the next issue.

In an issue that is mostly dialogue driven, it helps to be written by two of the best in the industry. Scott Snyder and Steve Orlando use this issue to reveal the motivations behind both The Shadow and The Stag. Where The Shadow is blunt and demanding The Stag is subtle and prefers to let the Joker join him of his own volition. In this issue they make it clear that as different Batman is from the Joker, so too is The Shadow from The Stag. The art by Riley Rossmo is fantastic, and now where is this more evident than in a spectacular single page spread that turns The Shadows cloak into the faces of his many protégés. As we near the halfway point of this limited series, it is clear that all of the creators are at the top of their game. As enjoyable as the first three issues have been, I’m sure the next will only be better.

Steve Orlando and Scott Snyder continue to write a powerful story that pays homage to the greatness of the pulp age hero without feeling too dated. Their Shadow is still a man straight out of the 1930’s. He has no sense of the moral high ground. To him the world is simply good or evil and it is his responsibility to destroy evil. While Batman tries to be Gotham’s savior, the Shadow would rather just be its punisher. Their complex and intriguing story combine with Riley Rossmo’s beautiful art brings excitement to every page in this book. With only two issues left, I don’t expect them to slow down any time soon.

Although it can feel a bit clunky in the middle, the payoff at the end is well worth it for anyone enjoys character development as well as high adrenaline action. There's no telling what adventures John Constantine will get into in future issues but Doyle and Tynion IV are writing it, you can be sure that it will be worth picking up.

As someone who went into this review with very minimal familiarity with the Hannah-Barbera cartoons let me assure you that this issue and series is for new fans as well as old. I am eagerly awaiting the next issue and I’m sure you will too.

Bolstered by stunning artwork and snappy dialogue, Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #1 is definitely one issue you will not regret picking. While paying homage to the great legacy of Green Lantern, it is clear that Venditti is building towards something new that has the potential to reshape this colorful corner of the DC universe. The moment you put down this issue you will be filled with a deep sense of longing that will not leave you until you can pick up issue #2.

Robert Venditti hits his stride in this issue with dialogue that is not only captivating but also true to the characters that speak it. Bolstered by the as always excellent art and colors by Rafa Sandoval and Tomeu Morey respectively, this issue cements this teams place as the right one to tell great Green Lantern stories. Anyone who is a fan of drama, intrigue, and colorful space adventures who be foolish to not pick up Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps today.

It’s hard to find a vault with an issue that is all action from the first panel. The story is advanced by a great degree and we finally are let in on some of Sinestro’s background machinations that assisted in his ascension to power. Although it would have been nice to spend more time exploring the situation of the rest of the Corps, I am sure this will addressed in forthcoming issues in a monumental fashion. Vendtti’s writing and Sandoval’s art make this both an entertaining read and a stunning piece or literary art, and something that any fan would be happy to have on their pull list.

Robert Venditti is at the top of his game in this issue, as is the art by Ethan Van Sciver. The combination of larger than life stories combined with awe inspiring art of galactic wonders and terrors continues to make this one of the best books currently put out by DC. As the action continues to rise in this arc, it is hard to not get excited about what is yet to come as it builds towards it’s eventual climax. Much like the Green Lantern Corps itself, this series is getting stronger in every issue I cannot wait to see what happens next.

Earth’s Green Lanterns may be divided for the moment, but that is quickly coming to an end. Robert Venditti and artist Ethan Van Sciver deliver another tremendous issue in what has proven to be a thoroughly entertaining first story arc in this much-anticipated series. With only one issue to go in the Sinestro’s Law story arc, you are sure to want to pick this issue up sooner rather than later so a not to miss out on what will be a spectacular conclusion.

Overall this issue is a step down from the previous two, but the fact that we are so close to the final confrontation between Hal and the Green Lantern Corp and Sinestro and his fear lanterns makes it all the worthwhile.

The conclusion to Robert Venditti’s first arc of Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps is probably the strongest issue yet. It builds upon the history of the entire Green Lantern franchise to bring the series to new and uncharted territories. Anchored by stellar artwork and colors by Rafa Sandoval and Tomeu Morey, this issue a pleasure to see as well as read. While there is now telling where this series will go after the game-changing finale, one this is certain. If Venditti continues to drive the series to new and exciting places, then it will certainly be one that you will want to pick up.

Following a first arc that received mixed reviews, Robert Venditti had to create a stunning follow up that would build on all that was good in Sinestro’s Law and throw aside all that didn’t work and if the first issue is anything to go off is, then it looks like he is on the right path. By incorporating more of the Corps than were featured in the first arc as well bringing back old enemies, Venditti seems committed to creating a larger story worthy of the history of the Green Lantern Corps. Bolstered by the stunning art and colors of Ethan Van Sciver and Jason Wright, this issue if a pleasure to behold as well as read. With a true twist ending that opens the series up to greater things, Hal Jordan and The Green Lantern Corps #8 is a book you will want to pick up today.

With the return of multiple fan favorites, including the character that carried all Green Lantern series for so long, Robert Venditti proves that he is not done with using all the history of the Green Lantern to create stories that will please longtime fans and newcomers alike. His writing remains near perfect, as each character as allowed just enough dialogue to express their personality but not too much that they overshadow the book. The art and colors of Rafa Sandoval and Tomeu Morey continue to elevate this series above the many releases every week and establish it as one of the premier books on the market today.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #10 is a strong issue that will keep your attentions form beginning to end. This issue is as much about what is learned as it is what happens. The revelation of the Grand Collectors identity, as well as the dwindling light of hope, will without a doubt play heavily in the issues to come. In his first opportunity to write the four Earth lanterns, Robert Venditti has proven that he is up to the task of balancing the story between them. Ed Benes art is dynamic and Jason Wrights colors are bright, making this book not only wonderful to read but also beautiful to behold.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #11 is the strongest issue of Venditti’s run, and that is saying something. Although he has always worked to balance the story between all the major characters, none have seemed so effortless. The way the story seamlessly moves from Hal and Kyle to John and Guy is something that I hope continues in all the issues to come. Rafa Sandoval and Tomeu Morey again prove to be a powerful one two punch for the art. As we take one step closer to Earth’s four lanterns reuniting, Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps remains one of the most satisfying books put out by any publisher today.

Many times stand alone issues can be viewed as throwaway stories that have no effect on the larger picture, but that could not be further from the truth for Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #13. Not only does it set up future adventures and villains the Corp will face, but it also ends on a feeling of hope that no matter how terrible things may seem in the moment the long run will prove it all to be worth it.

Like most of the other Rebirth titles that DC has put out, Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps is not trying to break the mold of its predecessors but rather is designed to pay homage to the past while also building towards a better future. No matter what you may have thought of DC’s offering over the past few years, anyway who reads this issue will be hard pressed not to believe that the brightest days for Green Lantern are still yet to come.

When you have a character as cherished and with a back catalog so large as John Constantine, you owe it to the fans to put out a spectacular book, and that is exactly what DC and Oliver have done. Hopefully this is just the first great issue in what turns out to be a phenomenal series.

The Hellblazer #2 continues the story started in the first issue and confirms that Simon Oliver is the writer to take this decades old character to the next level. He writes Constantine with an attitude and style that is easily copied, but hard to perfect. The art by Moritat is spectacular, as it always is, and does as much to set the tone of the book as the story itself. In picking up the storylines started in issue #1 and expanding them, as well as the world of Constantine, The Hellblazer #2 proves to be a thoroughly enjoyable read and confirmation that this series is one that you will want to pick up every month.

Although it is not the most exciting issue he has written yet, Hellblazer #8 does seem to be gathering all the elements of a good Constantine story, which will hopefully pay dividends down the line.

I recommend this issue to anyone who either finds an appeal in the sort of old fashioned heroism that has gone out of style in recent years or perhaps just wants to try something different in the superhero genre. As I'm sure this series will make the reader question, "what is moral?" or "what truly is the greater good?" I am eagerly awaiting issue 2.

As we have come to expect, the writing by Millar is fantastic and the art by Quitely is nothing short of iconic. From one panel to the next, the dialogue and art drives the story from one exciting turn to another until we reach our temporary destination, a full-page spread that will leave you clamoring for issue #3. Jupiter’s Legacy 2 may prove to be some of Mark Millar’s finest work and never has that been clearer than with Issue #2.

Although not as action packed as the previous issues, issue three of Jupiter’s Legacy 2 does more to advance the story and bring depth to the characters than any physical contest could. As so much of the parent series dealt with the first generation of superheroes looking down on their children for, in their opinion, not living up to their potential, it is a wonderfully change to have a second generation hero looking at his father with disappointment as he begins to learn that perhaps the first generation of heroes were just as complicated as their children. Miller and Quitely’s work in this issue, as it has been for the rest of the series, is phenomenal and will leave you pining for the next issue.

Despite only a brief cameo from hazy images of Superman, Justice League #1 builds on the promise of Hitch’s Rebirth issue to deliver great stories that could only be told in this series. The problems are grand and the solution will be complex. Although there is no telling what havoc the Kindred will unleash upon the earth we can rest assured that it will be intricate, original, and worthy of a great Justice League story.

Although this issue is less than the best, I am will to give Bryan Hitch a break on this one because it is clear he is building to something bigger and better. The Kindred is a truly interesting villain that I hope is fleshed out more and will prove to be a real challenge that the League cannot just punch its way out of. If Hitch begins to write at the level we all know he is capable of, then I believe this can still be a great series.

Bryan Hitch and Tony S. Daniel outdo themselves in this issue. How Hitch presents each League member tells me that he has finally found the voice of the individuals and that although this is a team book, it will not be written at the expense of each character. Daniel’s art is nothing short of top notch, and beyond the high expectations that he has set for himself. With the story finally taking off in issue #3, it seems that Hitch is now writing at a level that we all know he is capable of and what made the announcement that he would be helming this book so ex

Anyone who is familiar with Bryan Hitch's work know the quality of stories he is capable of writing and hopefully the next issue will be up to his own high standards that he has set with years of fantastic story telling.

Despite the opening arc having a shaky middle, Justice League #5 manages to stick the landing and leave the reader with a sense of excitement and intrigue for stories yet to come.

Besides starting a new story arc, Justice League #5 also provides the introduction on new artistic talent as Matthew Clark and Tom Derenick share this issue. Avoiding the pitfall that so many books with multiple artists have, these two work well together and draw a consistent issue that is both direct and a beautiful compliment to Bryan Hitch’s story. His dialogue remains top notch and each character is really allowed to shine in this issue, even if it just for line or two. It is clear that this arc will focus more on the members’ internal struggles as much as battles with external enemies, and following an earth shaking previous arc where the conflict was with cosmic giants, I think it just the change of pace that this series needs.

Robert Venditti’s second arc as writer of Justice League is a short one, but it is all the more powerful because of it. He brings forth the idea that despite all the power and bravado, these people are just as susceptible to doubt and fear as the rest of us. It is always a risk when you right a story where Batman and Superman, as well as others, are shown in a negative light and never really get the chance to redeem themselves, but it does point to what kind of stories Venditti wants to tell. Although the names are familiar, this is a very different League than we are used to. They do not trust each other, themselves, or even the world they have sworn to protect. The choices one member makes in this issue will shake the foundations of the team for issues to come and the inner demons they face in this issue will without a doubt leave them all scarred in ways we cannot yet imagine.

The first issue of his latest arc proves that Venditti is determined to treat these characters as people rather than just the larger than life figures they have become. The idea that the losses have a real emotional effect on the League members is interesting a worth exploration and that Cyborg , who is simultaneously the least and most human of anyone, would be effected the most presents an interesting juxtaposition with the more experienced League members and one I hope is explored in issues to come. Although only one person perished in the Kindred’s attack, Justice League #8 makes it clear that her loss will be felt for issues to come and may prove to be that catalyst that brings down the League itself.

In an issue that saw Aquaman talk to fish and Wonder Woman casually discussing killing a teammate, there is a lot to like. Bryan Hitch seems to have finally found his stride as he tows the line between knock down – drag out action fest and story with real heart. Neil Edwards and Tony Aviña art really shines in this issue as both are given ample chance t display their talents. If the issues to come are anything like Justice League #9, then you can be sure that Justice League is a series you want to pick up.

There are many things to like about Justice League #10 and the few that are not do not drag down the issue into the realm of unreadable. There is not a single thing in this issue that feels unnecessary; everything done moves the plot forward in way that helps it avoid any pitfalls. Neil Edward’s art is best served when there is action on the page, and the back half of this book as that in spades. As a showdown with Amazo lurks in issue #11, there is no doubt that Bryan Hitch is not afraid to up the ante as he keeps setting up villains and dangers that will require the entire team to overcome. Although not a perfect issue, Justice League #10 pack just enough twists and action to keep the reader entertained and excited enough to return to the book once issue #11 hits the stands.

Justice League #11 is in many ways a very focused issue. Unlike some earlier issues that had too many plot lines and not enough pages to go around, the story is centralized and takes place almost entirely within a three-block radius of a suburb. In narrowing down the story, Hitch is able to add greater detail to the action on the page and the characterization of the heroes and villains alike. Neil Edwards’ art is on full display and no space is wasted on the page. His art is taken to the next level by the outstanding colors provided by Adriano Lucas that makes each page pop. The combination of stellar writing, an exciting story, and artwork that is nothing if not super makes Justice League #11 a book that you will want to pick up today.

While other tie in stories may just be a one-shot that is tangentially linked to the main narrative, this issue not only sets up the villain beautifully but also acts as a true prequel to DC's main event of 2017.

Tie in issues are often difficult in that they are forced to operate within the context of a larger narrative, but are limited to telling stories that do not necessary affect the outcome of the main story. Tim Seely does an excellent job of crafting a story that, although built upon the events of Justice League vs. Suicide Squad, very much stands on its own.

To say there are many things going on in Justice League #15 would be an understatement. Between the multiple storylines and on-linear style, it might be a bit much to comprehend after only one reading but what is easily understood is that Bryan Hitch is working on creating something big for his next story arc. Following mixed reviews of his previous entries, it seems that he is getting back to the strength of the League by breaking it apart. Whether or not this strategy proves to be a success remains to be seen but it is encouraging to see him trying new things in an effort to elevate DC’s premier title. The art by Fernando Pasarin is dynamic so even if you have trouble understanding it, this issue will surely be a pleasure to behold.

There was a lot of excitement about this mini-series when it was announced and thus far Williams has not disappointed. He has picked up on the characterization established in the ongoingJustice LeagueandSuicide Squadseries’ and used them to seamlessly craft a new story. The art by Tony S. Daniel and Alex Sinclair is, as usual, the phenomenal work that is expected from these two industry stars. With four issues left in the series, there are many directions that the story can take, but if the quality remains the same as the first two entries, then I don’t think any fan will be disappointed.

Although not as action packed as the first two issues, Justice League vs. Suicide Squad #3 more than makes up for it by giving background on Max Lord’s team but also finally explains why they all want Amanda Waller dead. Josh Williamson seems to be at home with these characters, and even though it can be difficult with so many to give everyone their time in the spotlight, he achieves this splendidly by making sure no time is wasted on any character and each does something to advance the story. The artwork by Jesus Merino and Alex Sinclair continues to be strong, directing the flow of the story as much as any bit of dialogue. With a bombshell reveal at the end and a major battle on the horizon, Justice League vs. Suicide Squad #3 is an issue you will not want to put down and leave you clamoring for the next issue until its release.

In passing the halfway point of this limited series there are no signs that it is getting close to slowing down. Joshua Williamson continues to raise the bar for exciting stories with each issue. Fernando Pasarin’s art in this issue makes the energy of the story nearly tangible and elevates the story beyond the narrative. With only two issues remaining it is too early to say whether or not Justice League vs. Suicide Squad will become a classic story, but there is not doubt that it is one of the most entertaining that DC has put out in years.

As Earth’s heroes become the tools of a fully restored Eclipso, it is up to Batman and the newly Justice League to stop them, but will the Dark Knight’s band of villains be enough to stand up to such power and rage? With only one issue remaining in the Justice League/Suicide Squad crossover Joshua Williamson is not holding anything back. The series has already seen the return of Max Lord, Lobo, and now Eclipso to the DC Universe so there is no telling what surprises he has in store for the finale issue, only that it will undoubtedly have a profound effect on the future of the DC universe.

Large events like Justice League vs. Suicide Squad can be difficult to pull off and Joshua Williamson should be commended for his writing in this series as he managed expertly juggle so many moving pieces and present them in one cohesive story. The reintroduction of Max Lord into the DC universe is probably the most important thing to come out of this series and his presentation as equal parts arrogance, confidence, and delusions of grandeur is near perfection. The art by Howard Porter does an excellent job of propelling the action scenes along and compliments to more intimate moments by drawing the audience eyes to exactly where they need to be. Although it is slow in parts and the reveal of Eclipso as the big bad is a little less than overwhelming, on the whole Justice League vs. Suicide Squad is an entertaining story that presents the two teams in a way that has not been seen before and cements that there is room for both in the DC Universe.

As Mr. Hitch does double duty of both writing and drawing this issue, I am willing to give him a pass on some trite storytelling because the half and full page spreads he created are truly breathtaking. This will not go down in history as one of the greatest Justice League stories every but I am certain that it does accomplish its goal of setting up the post-rebirth landscape for the Justice League and giving the audience just enough to entice them to pick up the next issue. I look forward to seeing where this Justice League and their old/new Superman go, which is really what you want in a #1.

From the first panel it is clear that this series will not skimp on the action or thrills. The two aforementioned missing person cases happen within the first four pages of the issue and hang over the rest of the book like a sword of Damocles of excitement. It is thoroughly enjoyable to enter into world where the best detectives are teenagers with an impressively detailed map of a preparatory schools ventilation system and the opening villain is a creature who looks like he would be more at home on the wall of a an Arizona desert bar than guarding a section of forest from trespassing campers and perhaps even an especially bold squirrel. If this style and tone remain constant throughout to the end of the limited series will take, then it is one you are not going to want to miss out. If you are looking for a book that is different than your normal superhero or moody fare, then you should definitely consider picking up Lumberjanes/Gotham Academy #1.

Midnighter and Apollo #1 allows Steve Orlando to continue the great work he began in the solo series. While this is above all an action series, with two of the heaviest hitters in the DC universe as main characters, the action would have no meaning if the characters were not developed enough for the audience to care for them. If the first issue is anything to go off of, this series will focus as much on the personal relationship between the two title characters, as it will with their conflicts with their enemies. Steve Orlando looks to highlight one of the most equal in committed romances in all of comics. The fact that they can take down just about any one who would dare get in their way, hero or villain, is just icing on the cake.

Midnighter and Apollo #2 is a great read that reminds us why these two are perhaps the greatest couple in the DC universe. Steve Orlando clearly knows the story he wants to tell, because all thought this is a mini-series none of it feels rushes, as so often can happen when a writer feels the need to cram so much story into so few issues. He manages to split time equitably between two main characters while also including enough plotting to carry the story forward and enough action to make the reader enjoy reading it. Francisco Blanco’s art is truly spectacular in this issue and his use of contrast between the foreground and background draws the audience’s eyes to exactly where they need to be to feel the full weight the scene. With the next issue taking us to the depths of hell, Midnighter and Apollo is sure to be thrill ride that you will not want to put down.

The combination of Rob Williams’ sharp and clever writing and Jim Lee’s fantastic art make Suicide Squad issue #1 a great opening issue in a series with high expectations. If they can be this good consistently throughout the forthcoming issues, then I am sure that Suicide Squad will be a highlight of the post Rebirth era.

Rob Williams continues his impressive run with a thoroughly entertaining issue and Jim Lee’s art remains some of the best in the industry. This issue also includes a backup story focusing on a single member of the squad, exploring their personality, motivations, and how it was that they came to be a member of Task Force X. If the first two issues are anything to go off of, these backups are the deserts in an action packed meal. They allow Rob Williams to explore the depths of these characters without slowing down or getting in the way of the main story, which continues to be one of the most exciting offerings DC is currently putting out. Although it may be too early to declare this to be one of the successes of DC’s Rebirth, Suicide Squad is definitely a title that will leave you entertained and clamoring for the next issue. Pick this issue up today and you will not be disappointed.

Rob Williams knocks it out of the park again with Suicide Squad #3, as the series continues to be one of, if not the, most enjoyable of DC’s current offerings. The story is action packed and suspenseful, with dialogue that is downright funny at times. In addition to the main story he also penned the backup to this issue, which just like those in the prior issues, carries the most emotional weight as it explores Katana’s origin and her reason for joining the Squad. Jim Lee’s art remains the benchmark in quality and energy for any series and it is really allowed to explode in this action driven issue. Not a single frame feels stale or phoned in and even the silliest proves to be integral in crafting the story and tone of this series. With three phenomenal issues behind us, I think it safe to say that the post-rebirth Suicide Squad is a success and a book that you should be picking up today.

Once again this issue proves to be no holds barred action fest, with just enough story to make you want to come back and grab the next issue. Rob Williams has maintained his quality in writing dialogue that is representative of the uniqueness of each character. At time it his harsh and unflinching, like a certain business suit wearing commander, and at others an insane laugh riot like a certain two-toned hairstyle psychopath. Jim Lee’s art is phenomenal as always, but a special recognition goes to Gary Frank as well, who drew the backup story. With two artists of this caliber on the same book, it is no wonder that it is a success.

Although not as action packed as the issues in the first arc, Suicide Squad #5 makes it clear that Rob Williams is trying to tell stories that focus as much on the characters has the explosions they cause. Often an with team book the “headline” characters can pull focus at the expense of supporting players but that is not an issue in this book, with each character getting an opportunity to express their own voice. While Rob Williams writing alone would make this a great book, the addition of Jim Lee’s art makes it one of the top books on the shelf today.

Once again Rob Williams has found the perfect balance between action and story that keeps a reader entertained and eager to come back for more. The dynamic action scenes and the close up of characters faces really give Jim Lee’s art a chance to shine in this issue. Once again it is the backup story that brings the real heart in this issue as we explore the tragic childhood and origin of the Squad’s most monstrous member. As unpredictable as the Squad themselves, there is no telling where Rob Williams’ story will go, but what is certain is that is bound to be as entertaining as anything currently on the shelves.

Suicide Squad #8 is a strong issue from beginning to end. Filled with Rob Williams’ usual outstanding writing, the funny moments will make you laugh and the action will have you on the edge of your seat. As has become standard during his run, Williams leaves the more introspective writing for the backup story, which unlike all the previous ones, focuses on a member who has yet to make her formal debut as a member of Task Force X. Jim Lee continues to prove that he is one of the best in the business, and that his art is best served when action is everywhere. With the Black Vault behind us and the much anticipated Justice League and Suicide Squad ahead, it is safe to say that Suicide Squad is one of the best books to come out of DC’s Rebirth initiative and worth eagerly awaiting every issues release.

Without a question Suicide Squad #9 is an exciting issue that you will not want to miss. Although it acts as a tie in to the current crossover, the issue very much stands on its own. Most of the characters are fleshed out and given a chance to stand on their own, more so than even in pages of Justice League vs. Suicide Squad, and the reason for Squad Zeros’ unrelenting rage towards Waller is finally revealed. The art by Riley Rossmo, although much different than Jim Lee’s who had been lead on most of Rob Williams run, is nothing short of spectacular. Entertaining from beginning to end, this is certainly an issue you will want to pick up today.

Writing a satisfying epilogue for a massive event like the Justice League/Suicide Squad crossover can be a hard thing to do, but Rob Williams & Si Spurrier manage to do just by focusing on something small. Instead of trying to build upon the excitement of the limited series, they slow the story down and focus on the very real issues of a strained family. Although the events may be populated with super beings and terrorist, this is still a story of an absentee parent and the havoc that can wreck on children. Rustam’s plan for revenge was simple. To utterly destroy Amanda Waller he only had to show her that in the eyes of those she holds most dear, she is nothing more than the monster he has long claimed her to be.

The issue following a major event can be difficult to write. You are forced to pick up on plots you put aside weeks ago, build on the momentum created during the event, and in some ways ever surpass it. Rob Williams manages to accomplish all through in this very thrilling issue by incorporating the character Rustam and his quest for vengeance into his larger story about the Annihilation Brigade the still mysterious Black Vault. With fantastic art by John Romita Jr. and Eddy Barrows this issue is sure to one of the best your read this week.

Rob Williams has proven with this issue that he truly understands the voice needed to write great Suicide Squad stories and I look forward to reading his continued work on the series. While the art is enjoyable to truly amazing aspect is the colors by Alex Sinclair. With such vibrant cast, it is only fitting that the look of the book should match. Although it is easy to get overexciting with a re-launch of a classing title, nothing in Suicide Squad Rebirth #1 points to expectations for the series being based in anything other than fact. Fact number 1, the classic lineup plus wonderful additions from recent years are back. Fact number 2, Williams appears to be setting up the book to tell stories that only the Suicide Squad can tell. Fact number 3, Amanda Waller is back to her, uh, full self.

The man who defined the team for the modern era has returned with an original story that can stand up alongside any of his classics.

Overall this issue has its flaws but that should not dissuade any longtime reader from picking up this issue. It is a building block in a much larger story, one that promises to pay off in a big. The art by Ken Lashley is bold and brings the action of the issue alive and helps guide the reader through some of the slower moments. How he draws movement is something to truly be admired. Cullen Bunn’s writing is engaging and once the story gets to its meatier bits, it will really shine and be something to relish. Although this issue is slow in parts it moves the story along to where it needs to be. Also, any issue that ends with “THOOM!” definitely deserves your consideration.